Pre Check Out Inspections &
End of Tenancy
The purpose of the visit is to ensure the tenant is aware that the property must be put back to its original state at the time of moving in when they check out to ensure their full deposit is returned.
1
What is contained within a property check out report?
Our check out service provides a detailed report on the condition of the property at the end of the tenancy. The check-out document is compared to the inventory report in order to determine how the property has changed since the start of the tenancy.
2
What does a Pre Check Out involve?
The report will record any items of damage, maintenance, and the standard of cleanliness. The reports includes both written and photographic information. Examples of the tasks and responsibilities that could be recommended at the pre-check out include; Replace any furniture or furnishings that have been considerably damaged or stained beyond normal wear and tear. Cut the grass and trim back foliage in outdoor spaces. Thorough cleaning throughout.
3
The most common disputes...
The most common disputes include cleaning, mould, redecoration and damage. Normally cleaning disputes focus on what standard and extent a property was clean at the start of the tenancy.
Cleaning
A check in inventory/schedule of condition should be very clear on the matter of cleanliness, and should define the standard of cleaning. Eg has it been domestically cleaned by the landlord or ere professional cleaners engaged. This creates the standard that the property can then be judged against at the end of a tenancy.
Mould
Another big area for disputes is mould, particularly in bathrooms. If there is no window, then ventilation should be installed, otherwise it is likely a claim for mould would fail.
Tenants should be made aware by their agent/landlord that mould is not wear and tear. Tenants should also be informed that they must not switch any ventilation fan off and if there is a window to open it to ventilate the bathroom. The same principles apply if a tenant is drying clothes in the property and not ventilating properly.
Redecoration
Most tenancy agreements prohibit redecoration without the permission from the landlord.
In many cases once permission is sought, the landlord will agree so long as the colours are agreed along with the standard of work.
Damage
It is important the tenant understands their liability and the cost of repair in order to agree deductions at the end of a tenancy. Betterment rules must also be taken into consideration. For example, the tenant could not be charged the full cost of a new carpet for a large stain.